Q: My main box is a Cutler-Hammer CH7DF, circa 1979. It has no "Main Breaker", just the normal collection of 15~30 amp breakers arranged in singles and pairs. I believe the typically available "manual transfer switches" may not work in this situation without adding a "Main" breaker to cut-off power going out to the line? Being accustomed to manual load management when under emergency power, I think all I might need is to have a MAIN breaker installed between the home's meter and my breaker box - IF it's also paired with a second breaker controlling the power-in from the generator (physically mirrored, so that one breaker must be OFF if the other is ON) . I know they exist, since we had one on the farm where I grew up. What's the name of such a beast, and are they "per code" now that I'm in the suburbs? by Phil Schaefer from Washington on December 08, 2013

A: Thanks for the inquiry!

It seems as though you have a fair grasp on what is required to accomplish your task at hand. There are two separate devices in question here, one being the service disconnect switch, or breaker if you prefer. And the second would be the mechanical interlock device, or the "mirrored breakers" if you will.

Both are fairly common mechanisms that are often found in transfer panels and load centers, sometimes independently and other times they work together in a well functioning system, referred to as a manual transfer panel or load center. Although we carry the load centers and independent service disconnect panels, the interlock kit is not something that we sell alone. The code on the addition of this product to any panel varies drastically from one area to another. As such, some load centers have this interlock built-in and therefore tested to meet federal guidelines and UL standards. Once you have determined the amperage of the incoming utility service, you will then be able to find the right disconnect or load center to meet your needs;

Remember that placement and use of both items is usually governed by code and therefore you will want to verify with the relevant electrical code officials before undergoing an installation.

by Mike, Product Expert

Q: Ref: Generac Model 5735We have a 200 AMP service and would like to use the 100 AMP manual transfer switch.Does the 100 AMP switch work the same way as the Kit50-25SB?Is the reason for the price difference the circuit breakers for the 100 AMP switch?

by Ken McDaniel from Louisiana on May 04, 2011

A: Yes, the TRC1005C operates the same as the Kit50-25SB except the Kit includes the breakers, power inlet box and power cord. All of these items would need to be purchased when selecting the TRC1005C.

by Mike, Product Expert

Q: Hi Jim. I bought a 17.5 kw Generac and want to use it to power the whole house. Is there a way to get more than 50 amps to a transfer switch.? What transfer switch would you choose?by Peter Matheson from Nevada on February 19, 2011

A: The best way to connect to your home panel and have the ability to use all your circuits is to use a manual transfer panel based on the amperage size of your existing panel. (100A or 200A) This transfer panel would be mounted between your meter and your main panel breaker so you have control of all of your circuits. You still need to control them according to the load without exceeding the maximum of 12,500 watts through the 50A outlet. In a normal situation no one normally uses anywhere near 12,500 watts at any one time. The link below will show you some of the switches we have to give you more options.

I ordered the Generac GP17500E generator and Gen-Trans 50 Amp Power transfer. Putting the generator together was a piece of cake. I was able to do it alone but would recommend an extra set of hands when installing the wheel kit.

I could have installed the Gen-Tran 50 Amp Power Transfer myself, the instructions were easy to follow, but I elected to use a professional electrician for the install. I wanted the system installed in a way that it was 100% impossible to have the main come on and the possibility of the backup going to the same circuits.

The electrician removed the circuits I wanted on back-up from the main and ran them all to a separate junction box. Then he ran the circuits I wanted backed-up to the Gen-Tran 50 amp Power Transfer box from the junction box. The electrician had to use more wiring than came with the package but I am very pleased with the way he installed it.

We hooked up the power cord to the generator, the generator started on the first try. Then we threw all the proper switches and everything worked perfectly.

I am very pleased with both of these purchases and would recommend either item.

I ordered the Generac GP17500E generator and Gen-Trans 50 Amp Power transfer. Putting the generator together was a piece of cake. I was able to do it alone but would recommend an extra set of hands when installing the wheel kit.

I could have installed the Gen-Tran 50 Amp Power Transfer myself, the instructions were easy to follow, but I elected to use a professional electrician for the install. I wanted the system installed in a way that it was 100% impossible to have the main come on and... more

Shop for the Gen-Tran 50-Amp Power Transfer System (25' w/ Straight Blade) at Electric Generators Direct. Research Gen-Tran power transfer systems online. Find Gen-Tran KIT50-25SB power transfer systems & gen-Tran 50Amp power system Kit50-25SB features and specifications.